Sexism or just sci-fi as usual? “Star Trek Into Darkness” director J.J. Abrams appeared as a guest on “Conan” and discussed his decision to include a scene in which Captain Kirk (Chris Pine) spies on Carol Marcus (Alice Eve) in her underwear.

Paramount

Alice Eve in ‘Star Trek Into Darkness’

Abrams addressed charges by some that the scene is gratuitous and sexist. He told O’Brien, “The intent was, it’s Kirk, who was always a womanizing character. So the idea was, have a beat like that amidst all this action and adventure. He looks and then looks away. I don’t think I quite edited the scene in the right way.”

Abrams said the scene was meant as a counterbalance for one shown earlier in the film, in which Kirk is shirtless in bed, but the director added, “some people see it as exploiting her, and while she is lovely, I can also see their point of view.”

Paramount

Chris Pine in ‘Star Trek Into Darkness’

Abrams also brought along a scene that he said was shot but ultimately cut from the film, of the villainous John Harrison (played by Benedict Cumberbatch) taking a shower. The scene is set to ominous music and shows Harrison’s chest under cascading water — sure to excite the actor’s strong following of fans.